My C1990 Grand Marquis

The best way to align the distributor is to find the top dead center of the number 1 piston.
This is done by first finding the timing marks on the crankshaft pulley. Then you will either have to remove a valve cover to see when the intake valves are open and when they start to close, you are reaching
top Dead Center.
You can also stick your finger in the spark plug hole to feel the compression made by the piston as it reaches top dead center and when it stops pushing air past your finger, look to see if the timing marks are lined up.
It is best to remove the valve cover and much easier in the long run.
Once you find top dead center. Point the distributor rotor at the number 1 cylinder.
It should then be lined up.